To get to the Stampede, take the C-Train to Stampede Station. If you're downtown already, walk to 7 Ave. S.W. and board an eastbound train. It's a short trip to Stampede Park.

From downtown, The Calgary Zoo and Telus Spark are a short drive or C-Train ride east on Memorial Trail. Board the eastbound train downtown on 7 Ave. and get off at Zoo station. The Telus Spark science centre is close by and within walking distance from the c-train.

Day One

Up for some breakfast? Grab the family and attend one of the free Calgary Stampede Breakfasts that the city has become well known for. Great food and hospitality await.

When you've had your fill of flapjacks, hop on the C-Train and head down to Stampede Park. Watch the Calgary Stampede Rodeo at 1:30 p.m. Buy tickets in advance to get seats in the stands – or bring some sturdy cowboy boots, show up the day of, and stand in the dirt and watch like a real cowpoke.

After the rodeo, head back to the hotel to rest up for the night’s activities. Come back to Stampede Park for the GMC Rangeland Derby and Grandstand Show. After the chuckwagon races enjoy music, dancing and singing – watch as it leads up to the spectacular fireworks show. Buy tickets in advance.

Day Two

Fuel up for the day with breakfast at the hotel then head over to the Calgary Zoo. (Get there at 9:00 when the gates open, the weather is cool and the animals are most active.) Visit the baby gorilla, stand in awe of the giraffes then hop over and see the kangaroos.

Take the C-Train from the Calgary Zoo to Stampede Park. Make the BMO Kids' Zone your destination for the afternoon and transform your kids into young cowboys and cowgirls. At 2:30 p.m. watch as they learn the basics of penning and teamwork.

For dinner, go to The Range in the Big Four Building. Then head over to the Kids' Midway for rides and games.

Day Three

Grab breakfast at the hotel before making your way to Stampede Park. The Kids' Midway is full of fun and opens at 11:00 a.m.

Dog lovers will want to catch the Superdogs (watch the video) at the Big Four Building at noon. Then bring the family over to the Kids' Midway for rides and games.